YOUNG people who run their own magazine have been given a “royal seal of approval” by the Queen’s lord lieutenant.

Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Warren Smith JP, praised the team behind Xplode magazine for committing £100,000 worth of time to the project every year.

Xplode is the town’s only charity run by young people and was founded in 2011 by former Ladybridge High pupil, Saeed Atcha.

The charity’s main aim is to give Bolton youngsters employability skills and help them realise their potential.

Mr Smith said: “I’m very excited about what I’ve seen. It just demonstrates the talent and skills Xplode gives to young people.

“The way the team manages its affairs without any adults is remarkable.”

The lord lieutenant met with a number of Xplode’s 64 volunteers aged 12 to 22, at Xplode’s town centre offices at The Bolton Hub.

Mr Smith wanted to find out more about what they do and the training and development programme they take part in.

Asda and Cineworld provide local training and practical work experience to the Xplode team.

Saeed, aged 18, said: “I’m delighted to have welcomed the Lord Lieutenant to Xplode.

“We’re one of the only charities truly made by, and for, young people and I think it’s brilliant to receive this kind of recognition.

“The young people have been really motiv-ated by this visit.”

Xplode publishes teen publication Xplode magazine which showcases the writing and design skills of Bolton’s young people, and covers youth culture, music, fashion, sport, entertainment and social issues.

For more information go to xplodemag.co.uk